74-Year-Old Arrested for Illegal Marijuana Grow in Riverside County

Authorities found over 1,000 plants at a home that had been "transformed" into a cultivation site.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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A 74-year-old man was arrested in Wildomar, California after deputies found over 1,000 marijuana plants at his home, which had been converted into an illegal cultivation operation. The residence was deemed uninhabitable due to the dangerous electrical system modifications.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in combating illegal marijuana grow operations, even in areas where recreational cannabis is legal. The large scale of the grow and the hazardous conditions created raise public safety concerns.

The details

Deputies served a search warrant at a home on Amatista Avenue in Wildomar after receiving complaints from residents about a potential grow operation. They found the "residence was transformed into a marijuana cultivation site" with approximately 1,050 plants in various stages of growth. The electrical system had also been illegally altered, creating a fire hazard. Southern California Edison estimated over $60,000 in stolen utilities.

  • On February 5, 2026, deputies served a search warrant at the home.
  • In January 2026, deputies began receiving complaints from Wildomar residents about a potential grow operation at the home.

The players

Guofo Chen

A 74-year-old man who was arrested and booked for illegal marijuana cultivation, possession of marijuana for sale, and felony utility theft.

Riverside County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that conducted the investigation and search warrant, leading to the arrest.

Southern California Edison

The utility company that was called to the scene and estimated over $60,000 in stolen electricity at the home.

Wildomar Code Enforcement

Officials who deemed the residence uninhabitable due to the dangerous electrical system modifications.

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What’s next

As the investigation continues, deputies are asking anyone with additional information to contact them.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in combating large-scale illegal marijuana cultivation operations, even in areas where recreational cannabis is legal. The hazardous conditions created by the electrical system modifications raise serious public safety concerns.